Famous engine reconstructed

The forthcoming celebrations for the bicentenary of Bridgnorth's famous Catch Me Who Can railway locomotive are nearing completion.

Severn Park will be the venue of a major steam rally over the weekend of July 19 and 20.

Attractions already confirmed include traction engines and steam rollers from across the Midlands and an 1890s steam carousel from Nottingham.

To mark the anniversary the full-size working replica of the 1808 Bridgnorth locomotive built by the engineer Richard Trevithick, which is currently under construction at the Severn Valley Railway, will be joined by three other Trevithick engines.

A spokesman added: "The Puffing Devil road vehicle is travelling up from Cornwall, the London steam carriage is joining us from Manchester and from Ironbridge Gorge Museum we have the Coalbrookdale Locomotive.

"This will be the first time these four replicas have been together on one site.

"Other attractions include the Kinver model engineers ride-on railway and their working model of the Bridgnorth locomotive. A market and food court will be operational over the weekend.

"The event is being organised by Trevithick 200 and Bridgnorth Twinning Association with the support of Bridgnorth Lions and Rotary Clubs.

The charity Trevithick 200 has also recently formed a trading company to manage the Steam Rally event.

In addition Trevithick 200 Limited will also be promoting a range of commemorative merchandise to raise funds for the ongoing management of the 'Catch Me Who Can' Railway locomotive.

A spokesman said: "The locomotive has already become well known nationally and is in great demand from railway societies and museums across the country to make guest appearances.

"After the launch of the locomotive at the Severn Park steam rally in July it will then be in steam at the Severn Valley Railway for a first and last event in mid August before travelling up to Chesterfield for the August Bank Holiday weekend. Bookings are already being taken for next year."

Anyone wishing to help or would like more information please contact 07929 290465 or visit the event website www.trevithick200.co.uk